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Dwight Muhammad Qawi Dies At 72

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated Jul 28, 2025 12:35 PM ET

Dwight Muhammad Qawi, one of boxing’s most relentless and respected warriors, has passed away at the age of 72 after a five year battle with dementia. Qawi’s story was one of remarkable redemption and triumph. Born Dwight Braxton in Baltimore and raised in Camden, New Jersey. He discovered boxing while incarcerated at Rahway State Prison for armed robbery. His natural talent flourished behind bars, and upon his release in 1978, he turned professional at the relatively late age of 25.

We're saddened to learn of the passing of legendary two-weight world champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi.

A ferocious force in the ring who later dedicated himself to youth advocacy and addiction counselling, he will be sorely missed.

Our thoughts are with his loved ones. Rest in… pic.twitter.com/s53hwhYuoB

— Boxing News (@BoxingNewsED) July 28, 2025

Nicknamed “The Camden Buzzsaw” for his swarming, aggressive style, Qawi rose quickly through the ranks. In December 1981, he captured the WBC light heavyweight title by stopping the legendary Matthew Saad Muhammad in the 10th round, and then emphatically proved it was no fluke by stopping Saad again in a rematch just eight months later.

In 1982, after converting to Islam, he changed his name to Dwight Muhammad Qawi. He later moved up to cruiserweight and added another world title to his resume. Becoming a two-division world champion a rare feat at the time.

Arguably the best cruiserweight fight ever

Known for his fierce tenacity, compact frame, and fearless attitude. Qawi gave fans unforgettable battles, including a legendary 1986 war with a young Evander Holyfield. Which remains one of the greatest cruiserweight fights in history.

Qawi was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004. Cementing his legacy as a fighter who overcame adversity both inside and outside the ring. His journey from prison to the pinnacle of boxing remains one of the sport’s most inspirational stories. Rest in peace to a true warrior and Hall of Fame champion.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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